El Calafate Airport

El Calafate Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Comandante Armando Tola) is not merely a transit point, but the true gateway to the icy heart of Patagonia, marking the start of the journey to the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier. The terminal, situated in the midst of the boundless steppe, immediately sets travelers in a spirit of adventure: its unique stone and wood architecture harmonizes perfectly with the rugged surrounding landscapes. Even during descent, passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of Lake Argentino and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, turning the landing into an unforgettable part of the journey.

This modern aviation hub is considered one of the most beautiful in Argentina due to its design and location, offering tourists a high level of service.

• Architecture: The terminal was designed by the renowned Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott. The building is constructed using local materials—stone and wood—allowing it to blend perfectly into the surrounding natural landscape.
• Scenic Approach: The flight to El Calafate is often called an excursion in itself. Aircraft approach from the side of Lake Argentino, revealing an incredible panorama of the steppe and mountains.
• Comfort and Logistics: The airport is located just a 20-minute drive from the city. Despite its relatively small size, it is equipped with everything necessary for tourists: there are cafes with views of the runway, souvenir shops featuring works by local artisans, and a comfortable waiting area.

Below is the contact information for El Calafate International Airport "Comandante Armando Tola" (FTE).

• Official Website: www.aa2000.com.ar/elcalafate. The airport is managed by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000; you can find the current flight schedule, service information, and news on their website.
• Information Desk Phone: +54 2902 49-1230.
• Address: Ruta Provincial 11, Z9405, El Calafate, Santa Cruz Province, Argentina.
• Email: To contact airport representatives, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website, as a public email for general inquiries is not provided.
• Social Media: Current information and updates are often published on the official social media pages of the management company, Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram).
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must contact your airline's Lost & Found service directly. Airport staff do not handle such requests.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and inquiries regarding general matters related to your stay at the airport, you can call the information desk or use the online forms on the website.

Getting to Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (IATA: FTE), which serves the city of El Calafate, is quite simple. The airport is located approximately 23 kilometers east of the city center, and the drive usually takes about 20-30 minutes. The main ways to reach the terminal are shuttle buses, taxis, or rental cars.

Shuttle Buses (Minibuses) — this is the most popular and economical method for tourists. Many companies offer transfer services from your hotel door to the terminal entrance. You can book a seat at your hotel, a travel agency, or online. A one-way trip will cost approximately 10–15 USD per person. Shuttle schedules are usually coordinated with flight arrival and departure times, making them especially convenient for solo travelers.

Taxis and Remises (Private Cars) — a faster and more comfortable option. Taxis can be ordered by phone or found at designated stands in the city, while a "remis" is essentially a private hire car booked in advance at a fixed rate. The cost of a trip from the city center to the airport is approximately 30–40 USD per car. This option can be cost-effective for families or small groups, as the price does not depend on the number of passengers.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those traveling through Patagonia by car. Most major rental companies have offices both in the city and at the airport, allowing you to return the vehicle right before your flight. This completely eliminates transfer worries. Comandante Armando Tola Airport has parking facilities where you can leave a car for both short and long terms.

El Calafate Airport (FTE), officially known as Comandante Armando Tola International Airport, is a modern and compact tourism hub. It consists of one two-story terminal that serves all domestic and international flights. Consequently, there is no need to transfer between terminals—all zones are under one roof, making navigation intuitively clear.

The airport layout is extremely simple. On the ground floor, you will find check-in counters, the baggage claim area for arriving passengers, and car rental offices. The upper floor is entirely dedicated to the departure zone: here are the security checkpoints, a small waiting hall with panoramic windows offering views of Lake Argentino, as well as several cafes and souvenir shops. Signs are clear and duplicated in English, so getting lost is practically impossible.

A distinctive feature of the terminal is its architecture—the building is constructed using natural wood and stone, allowing it to blend harmoniously into the surrounding Patagonian landscape. Despite its modest size, the airport offers all basic amenities for a comfortable wait before your flight.

Completing all pre-flight procedures usually does not take much time. On average, check-in and security screening take about 30-45 minutes. However, during the high tourist season (December to February), queues are possible. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight departure to pass through all formalities without rushing, enjoy a coffee, and admire the views before flying.

The international airport of El Calafate (FTE), officially known as Comandante Armando Tola Airport, is a relatively young but extremely important transport hub in Patagonia. Its history is a vivid example of how modern infrastructure can transform an entire region. The airport was opened in November 2000 to replace the old, small Lago Argentino airfield, which could no longer cope with the growing flow of tourists.

The main driving force behind the creation of the new airport was the need to make the treasures of southern Argentina more accessible, primarily Los Glaciares National Park with the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. The construction was a turning point in the history of tourism in the region. It was one of the first airports in the country built and managed by a private company, serving as an example of a successful public-private partnership.

One of the most interesting facts is that the terminal project was designed by the world-famous Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott, the author of the Opéra Bastille project in Paris. His design, with flowing roof lines resembling a bird's wing or the curves of a glacier, fits harmoniously into the rugged Patagonian landscape. Since its opening, the airport has not undergone massive reconstructions, as it was originally designed as a modern and functional complex capable of handling international flights and large passenger volumes.

The airport was named in honor of Armando Tola, an aviation pioneer and one of the first pilots to master air routes in this remote part of the world. The opening of FTE drastically reduced travel time for travelers from all over the globe, transforming El Calafate from a small settlement into one of the main tourist centers in all of South America. Its history is not so much about decades of development, but about the powerful impulse that a single modern facility gave to an entire era of travel to Patagonia.

Comandante Armando Tola International Airport, serving El Calafate, is a modern and convenient transit hub, despite its modest size. It offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait in the heart of Patagonia.

Dining and Shopping: In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have sandwiches, drink coffee, or try local pastries. Shops offer a wide selection of souvenirs: from wool and leather goods to chocolate and traditional Argentine products. This is a great place to buy gifts to remember your journey through Argentina.

Facilities and Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected. Special stands and power outlets are provided in the waiting areas for charging electronic devices. The terminal also has ATMs and a currency exchange point, although the exchange rate may be less favorable than in the city.

Lounges and VIP Service: In addition to the general waiting area, the VIP Lounge (Aeropuertos VIP Club) operates at El Calafate Airport. Passengers can access it for an additional fee or via privilege cards. Here, guests are offered comfortable seating, beverages, snacks, and a quieter atmosphere to relax before departure.

Services for Passengers with Special Needs: The airport is fully equipped for travelers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, accessible restrooms, and elevators. Passengers can request special assistance from airline staff. For families with small children, there are nursing rooms with changing tables.

Additional Services: A medical station operates at the airport to provide first aid. There are no specialized business centers or conference rooms here, but basic working conditions can be found in the VIP lounge. There are no hotels within the airport grounds, but many accommodation options are located in the city of El Calafate, which is about a 20-30 minute drive away.

The airport of El Calafate (FTE) is a small but modern terminal serving the gateway to Patagonia. The choice of dining establishments here corresponds to its size: it is not very extensive but allows for a comfortable snack while waiting for a flight. The main options are concentrated in the main hall before security control (landside).

The airport has several cafes and snack bars offering a standard selection for travelers: sandwiches, pastries, salads, hot and cold beverages. If you wish to try something local, look for traditional Argentine snacks. Often, you can buy empanadas (small pastries filled with meat or cheese) and the famous alfajores—delicate cookies with a sweet dulce de leche filling. This is an excellent option for a quick and authentic snack.

For those with time for a more substantial meal, local cafes can offer hot sandwiches or simple dishes. The price range here, as in most airports, is higher than the city average. Establishments usually operate according to the flight schedule, opening before the first morning flights and closing after the last evening departure.

Travelers with special dietary requirements should be prepared for a limited selection. Finding vegetarian options, such as a cheese and vegetable sandwich, is possible. However, options for vegans, as well as gluten-free or Halal dishes, are practically non-existent. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is safer to bring food with you from the city. After passing through security (airside), the choice is usually limited to a small kiosk with drinks and packaged snacks.

Planning a trip through El Calafate Airport (FTE) will be easier with our tips. Although it is a small and fairly modern airport, knowing some nuances will help you save time and avoid stress, especially during the peak tourist season.

Arrival Time at the Airport: El Calafate Airport mainly serves domestic flights. It is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before your flight departure. During peak season (December to February), there may be queues for check-in and security, so it is better to allow a little extra time. If you have an international flight, arrive 2.5-3 hours early.

Check-in and Security: To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. The security screening procedure is standard, but be prepared to remove all electronics, including power banks, from your carry-on luggage. Liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag.

Seat Selection: Try to book a window seat! When taking off from or landing in El Calafate, stunning views of the turquoise waters of Lake Argentino and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes open up. Depending on the flight path, you might even be lucky enough to see the Perito Moreno Glacier from above.

Carry-on Luggage: Standard rules prohibit carrying sharp objects and liquids over 100 ml. You can safely carry local souvenirs, such as chocolate or alfajores cookies, in your hand luggage. However, please note that strict biosecurity regulations apply when entering Patagonia: it is forbidden to bring fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat products to protect the local ecosystem.

Connecting Passengers: Transit flights through El Calafate are rare, as it is mostly a final destination. If you have a connection, it will likely be domestic. The airport is small, and moving from one gate to another will not take much time. Check with your airline if you will need to collect and re-check your luggage.

Customs Control: There is no customs control for domestic flights. When departing on international flights, you can process tax refunds (Tax Free) at the customs counter before passing passport control. Present your receipts, purchases, and passport.

Saving Time and Money: The most cost-effective way to get to the city is the shuttle bus (remis), which can be booked at the counter in the arrivals hall. This is significantly cheaper than a taxi. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are quite high, so it is better to have a snack beforehand. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security.

Flight Delays: The weather in Patagonia is unpredictable, especially strong winds, so flight delays are not uncommon. In case of a delay, contact your airline representative for information and possible meal vouchers. The airport has cafes and free Wi-Fi, but options for long waits are limited. We recommend having a charged power bank and downloaded movies or books with you.